When Gene Simmons, Chaim Witz, co‑founder and bassist of Kiss lost consciousness behind the wheel on Oct. 8, 2025, the episode quickly turned into a headline‑making highway collision. The 76‑year‑old rock icon was driving his brand‑new 2024 Cadillac Escalade ESV along the Pacific Coast Highway near Malibu when the vehicle struck a guardrail just east of the Malibu Pier. California Highway Patrol officers arrived within minutes, documented that Simmons regained consciousness in under two minutes, and noted that he walked out of the SUV on his own, refusing immediate ambulance transport despite a facial laceration that later required twelve sutures.
Background on Simmons' Health and Driving Record
Fans might recall that Simmons celebrated his 75th birthday at The Beverly Hilton in November 2024, a low‑key affair with only a splash of champagne. Since then, he’s been vocal about maintaining a rigorous fitness routine, yet a 2017 near‑miss on Mulholland Drive—where he reported temporary vision loss—hinted at underlying issues. His California Class C driver’s license (DL# C4589217) was issued in May 2023 and remains clean of major violations, though the 2017 incident was logged as a “medical‑related” event.
Details of the Malibu Crash
The collision unfolded at 2:17 p.m. PDT, under clear skies and dry pavement, with a gentle 12‑mph breeze. According to CHP report #2025‑0008741, filed by Officer Marisol Ramirez, Badge #8432, the SUV slotted into the guardrail about 0.8 miles east of the pier (34.0289° N, 118.7969° W). Preliminary estimates from Allstate Insurance pegged structural damage at $28,740. The car’s VIN, 1GYS4DKJ0NR259123, was recorded for insurance purposes.
Official Response and Investigations
Immediately after the crash, Simmons’ manager Adam Leber, manager of Maverick Management, emailed TMZ confirming that the rock star was “resting comfortably at his Pacific Coast Highway residence” and would undergo a full cardiac evaluation at Cedars‑Sinai Medical Center the next morning. Toxicology results from Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center showed a blood‑alcohol content of 0.00 % and no illicit substances, prompting the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department to announce that no criminal charges would be filed.
Medical Experts Weigh In
Dr. Evelyn Shaw, Chief of Neurology at UCLA Medical Center, told reporters on Oct. 9 that “syncope in drivers over 75 almost always signals an underlying cardiac or vascular issue.” She recommended an urgent echocardiogram and 48‑hour Holter monitoring, citing American Heart Association guidelines that flag transient loss of consciousness as a red flag for sudden cardiac death. The recommended tests are slated for Oct. 10 at Cedars‑Sinai.
Potential Legal and Licensing Consequences
California law obliges drivers over 70 with recent medical episodes to appear before the Department of Motor Vehicles for a fitness‑to‑drive assessment. Simmons is scheduled to attend a mandatory reevaluation at the West Los Angeles Field Office (10850 Washington Blvd., Culver City) on Oct. 15 at 10:00 a.m. PDT. Vehicle Code Section 12806(b) could lead to a temporary suspension if his cardiac work‑up uncovers a condition that impairs his ability to operate a vehicle safely. Both Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, California State Assemblymember and Congresswoman Julia Brownley, U.S. Representative released joint statements urging senior drivers to seek regular medical clearance.
Implications for Senior Drivers and the Entertainment Industry
The crash forced the postponement of three scheduled Kiss reunion rehearsals at Paisley Park Studios in Minnesota, originally set for Oct. 10‑12. Fans were notified via the band’s official channels that new dates will be announced by Oct. 20. Beyond the music world, the incident rekindles a broader conversation about aging performers who continue to travel extensively. Insurance analysts note that incidents like this could prompt higher premiums for high‑net‑worth individuals over 70 who own luxury SUVs, especially when health screenings are not routinely documented.
- Key Facts
- Date & Time: Oct. 8, 2025, 2:17 p.m. PDT
- Location: Pacific Coast Highway, near Malibu Colony Road, Malibu, CA
- Vehicle: 2024 Cadillac Escalade ESV (VIN 1GYS4DKJ0NR259123)
- Injuries: Facial lacerations (12 sutures), no internal trauma reported
- Legal: No charges; DMV medical review scheduled for Oct. 15
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused Gene Simmons to lose consciousness while driving?
Preliminary medical opinion points to a syncopal episode likely tied to cardiovascular issues. Dr. Evelyn Shaw indicated that an echocardiogram and Holter monitor are necessary to pinpoint the exact cause.
Will the crash affect Gene Simmons' upcoming tours?
The three Kiss rehearsal sessions in Minnesota have been postponed until after Simmons completes his cardiac evaluation and any required DMV clearance. The band’s management will announce new dates by Oct. 20.
Are senior drivers in California subject to new regulations after this incident?
The incident prompted Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin and Rep. Julia Brownley to urge voluntary medical check‑ups for drivers over 75, but no new law has been enacted yet. Existing Vehicle Code §12806(b) already requires medical review after a syncopal event.
What insurance implications could arise from the crash?
Allstate estimates $28,740 in vehicle damage. Insurers may raise premiums for high‑value SUVs owned by drivers over 70, especially if medical incidents are recorded on their risk profiles.
How did authorities determine no substance use was involved?
Blood samples taken at the scene were analyzed by Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, returning a 0.00% blood‑alcohol level and no trace of illicit drugs.
